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In today’s post-pandemic digital age, studies suggest that rates of loneliness have risen significantly. Loneliness is increasingly recognized as a serious public health concern, negatively affecting physical and mental health, social cohesion, and trust within communities (Barjaková et al., 2023). The prevalence of loneliness increased substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as individuals were unable to leave their homes and opportunities for in-person social interaction became severely limited (Barjaková et al., 2023). During this time, reliance on social media and internet use also grew, often serving as a substitute for face-to-face connection while, for some individuals, contributing to feelings of comparison, disconnection, and emotional fatigue.
Loneliness is more than simply being alone—it is a deeply human emotional experience that can significantly affect mental and emotional well-being. When feelings of disconnection persist, they can influence mood, self-esteem, and one’s overall sense of belonging.
In this blog, we will explore what loneliness truly is, how it differs from social isolation, and why it has such a powerful impact on mental health. We will also discuss common signs of loneliness, the emotional and psychological effects it can create, and practical, compassionate steps individuals can take to begin reconnecting—with themselves and with others.
What Is Loneliness?
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Loneliness is defined as “a subjective feeling of deficiencies in one’s network of social relationships” (Barjaková et al., 2023). In other words, loneliness does not simply refer to being physically alone or isolated but rather to the emotional experience of feeling alone (Barjaková et al., 2023). Social isolation, by contrast, refers to the objective condition of having few social relationships or infrequent contact with others. (“Social Isolation and Loneliness,” 2020). Because loneliness is subjective, an individual may feel lonely even when surrounded by others.
Several common factors contribute to loneliness. Life transitions—such as moving, divorce, loss, or major developmental changes like starting college, entering the workforce, and adjusting to early adulthood—can disrupt social connections and increase vulnerability (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026). Social isolation itself, along with mental health challenges, can further intensify these feelings. Additionally, the growing role of technology and social media in everyday life can contribute to loneliness; as emphasis is placed on expanding online networks and accumulating “friends” or “followers,” young adults often experience a lack of depth and meaning in their relationships, leading to emotional loneliness (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026). Lower socioeconomic status can also play a role, as limited financial resources and lower social class may restrict access to activities and opportunities that help foster social connection and reduce loneliness (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026).
The Psychological Impact of Loneliness
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The psychological impact of loneliness is profound and well-documented. Social isolation has been associated with a significantly increased risk of premature mortality from all causes, with some research suggesting that its effects are comparable to well-known risk factors such as obesity and smoking (Barjaková et al, 2023). Beyond physical health, loneliness is strongly linked to a range of mental health challenges, including a heightened risk of depression—where the evidence is particularly strong—as well as anxiety and low self-esteem (Fried et al, 2020). Loneliness also contributes to negative thought patterns, such as persistent feelings of being unworthy or unlikable, and an increased sensitivity to perceived rejection. These effects often create a reinforcing cycle in which loneliness leads to social withdrawal, which in turn deepens the sense of isolation and perpetuates further loneliness.
The Physical and Neurological Effects
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Loneliness and social isolation also have significant physical and neurological effects on the body. They can trigger prolonged activation of the stress response, leading to chronically elevated cortisol levels and increased psychological stress (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026). This ongoing strain is often accompanied by sleep disruption and overall poor sleep quality, which further impacts health (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026). Over time, loneliness can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to illness and reducing the body’s ability to fight off disease (Fardghassemi & Joffe, 2026). Neurologically, it is associated with heightened threat perception and reduced emotional regulation, meaning individuals may feel more on edge and less able to manage their emotions effectively. Research has also found that social isolation is linked to approximately a 50% increased risk of developing dementia (“Social Isolation and Loneliness,” 2020). Additionally, poor social relationships have been associated with a 29% increased risk of coronary heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke, highlighting the serious and far-reaching impact of loneliness on overall health (“Social Isolation and Loneliness,” 2020).
Who Is Most at Risk?
Certain groups are more vulnerable to loneliness due to social, psychological, and life circumstances.
Older adults face a heightened risk of social isolation. About 24% of Americans aged 65 and older are considered socially isolated, while 35% of adults aged 45 and older and 43% of those aged 60 and older report feelings of loneliness (“Social Isolation and Loneliness,” 2020). Challenges associated with aging, such as hearing loss, can make communication more difficult, sometimes causing frustration or embarrassment. These difficulties may lead others to mistakenly perceive older adults as confused, unresponsive, or uncooperative (“Loneliness and social isolation,” n.d.).
Young adults and college students also face elevated risk, primarily linked to patterns of technology and habitual social media use (Fried et al, 2020). Employment status plays a role as well, with research showing that loneliness tends to be lower among those who are employed and higher among those who are unemployed (Barjaková et al, 2023). Similarly, remote workers—particularly those working from home three or more days per week—report higher levels of loneliness compared to those working in office settings, whereas working remotely one to two days per week shows no clear association (He et al, 2026).
People undergoing major life transitions, such as moving or changing careers, are also more susceptible, as are individuals with existing mental health conditions. Personality factors further influence risk, with certain traits from the Big Five model—such as lower extroversion or higher neuroticism (a tendency toward negative emotions)—being associated with greater likelihood of experiencing loneliness (Barjaková et al, 2023).
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Signs You May Be Experiencing Harmful Loneliness
There are several signs that may indicate you are experiencing harmful loneliness, particularly when these feelings persist over time. These can include:
- Persistent sadness or a sense of emptiness, often feeling stuck in your own thoughts (Erikson, 2023)
- Feeling misunderstood or emotionally disconnected from others (Erikson, 2023)
- Lack of motivation to socialize, with even the idea of going out feeling exhausting (Erikson, 2023)
- Feeling alone or disconnected even when you are around other people (Erikson, 2023)
- Increased screen time or endless scrolling replacing real-life interaction (Erikson, 2023)
- Changes in sleep or appetite, with healthy habits beginning to slip (Erikson, 2023)
- Coping behaviors such as binge eating, excessive shopping, or substance use (Erikson, 2023)
How to Cope with and Reduce Loneliness
Coping with and reducing loneliness often involves a combination of practical actions, mindset shifts, and supportive lifestyle habits.
Small, intentional steps can make a meaningful difference, such as reaching out to one trusted person, scheduling regular social interactions, or getting involved in community or group activities.
Equally important are cognitive and emotional strategies, including challenging negative self-beliefs, practicing self-compassion, and becoming more comfortable with vulnerability in relationships.
In addition, maintaining supportive lifestyle habits can strengthen overall well-being—this includes taking care of yourself through regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and engaging in activities you enjoy, such as hobbies or classes (“Loneliness and social isolation, n.d.). Staying active and seeking out meaningful, productive interactions with others can further help break the cycle of loneliness and foster a greater sense of connection (“Loneliness and social isolation, n.d.). Other effective approaches include limiting passive social media use, engaging in volunteering, or participating in purpose-driven activities, which provide a sense of mission and have been linked to better overall health (“Loneliness and social isolation, n.d.).
When to Seek Professional Help
Feeling lonely sometimes is normal, but there are times when it’s worth reaching out for professional support:
- If loneliness is contributing to depression or anxiety.
- If it’s causing enough distress that it affects your daily life (Davis, 2024).
- If you’ve tried other strategies and they aren’t helping (Davis, 2024).
Therapy options:
Individual therapy: One-on-one support tailored to your needs.
Group therapy: A chance to connect with others in similar situations, share experiences, and feel less alone (Davis, 2024).
A mental health professional can help by providing tools to cope with loneliness and its emotional effects, uncovering the root causes of social isolation, and supporting the development of social skills and strategies for building meaningful connections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, loneliness is a normal and deeply human experience and experiencing it does not mean something is wrong with you. Change is possible, and even small steps toward connection can make a meaningful difference over time. If you are struggling with loneliness or feeling disconnected, consider reaching out for support—whether by contacting our practice or scheduling a consultation to begin exploring ways to reconnect and feel supported.
Concerned about your mental health? Contact us today to schedule with a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner in Columbus, Ohio.
Citations
Barjaková, M., Garnero, A., & d’Hombres, B. (2023). Risk factors for loneliness: A literature review. Social Science & Medicine, 334, 116163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116163
Davis , J. (2024, August 21). Feeling lonely? 5 tips for dealing with loneliness. Feeling Lonely? 5 Tips for Dealing with Loneliness. https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2024/aug/how-to-deal-with-loneliness-from-a-psychologist/
Erikson , E. P. G. (2023, November 27). 8 signs and symptoms of loneliness. EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression-pictures/are-you-lonelier-than-you-realize.aspx
Fardghassemi, S. & Joffe, H. (2026). The causes of loneliness: The perspective of young adults in London’s most deprived areas. PLoS ONE, 17(4). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0264638
Fried, L., Prohaska, T., Burholt, V., Burns, A., Golden, J., Hawkley, L., Lawlor, B., Leavey, G., Lubben, J., O’Sullivan, R., Perissinotto, C., van Tilburg, T., Tully, M., & Victor, C. (2020). A unified approach to loneliness. The Lancet, 395(10218), 114. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(19)32533-4
He, T., Wei, L., Goodman, M. S., Pagán, J. A., Cuevas, A. G., & Bather, J. R. (2026). Remote work and loneliness: Evidence from a nationally representative sample of employed U.S. adults. Journal of Affective Disorders, 393, 120456. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2025.120456
Loneliness and social isolation — tips for staying connected | National Institute on Aging. National Institute on Aging . (n.d.). https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2020. Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities for the Health Care System. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press.
Figure 1: Social isolation can result in loneliness. Other types of separation can too. undrey/iStock/Getty Images Plus. [online image]. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/expanding-definition-loneliness-belonging
Figure 2: Loneliness Test: Are You Feeling Lonely?. [Online image]. Credit: Verywell / Nez Riaz, https://www.verywellmind.com/loneliness-test-are-you-lonely-7562069
Figure 3: Mental Health and Loneliness: the relationship across life stages. [Online image]. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mental-health-and-loneliness-the-relationship-across-life-stages/mental-health-and-loneliness-the-relationship-across-life-stages
Figure 4: Health Effects of Loneliness. [Online Image]. https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/health-resources/health-effects-of-loneliness/
Figure 5: What Works Centre for Wellbeing. [Online Image]. https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/risk-factors-for-loneliness/
